As a leading foodservice agency, we work closely with development chefs day in and day out, so it seems fitting that in our newly appointed role as PR agency to the Foodservice Quality Food Awards that we should announce a new category for 2018. Drum roll please… The Development Chef Award is aimed directly at manufacturers (rather than operators) and recognises these as-yet unsung innovators for their highly commendable work in getting NPD over the line.

Open to manufacturers and suppliers across foodservice and with a deadline of 6th July, the award is completely FREE to enter and designed to shine a spotlight on the industry’s innovators working tirelessly behind the scenes.

Candidates can enter themselves into the award or be nominated by a colleague or supplier. If you know any development chefs that would fit the bill and deserve some recognition, then getting involved couldn’t be easier. Entrants can click here and leave a supporting statement (max 400 words), detailing achievements to date, relevant skills, any contract wins and notable pieces of NPD along with a favourite recipe (which finalists will be required to demo at the cook-off). Entrants are also invited to upload an optional supporting presentation or recipe video to the site if they so wish.

Successful entrants will then be invited to a very special judging day on the 16th of August at the University of West London, in Ealing, where they will be tasked with creating a recipe of their choosing for the esteemed judging panel to sample. This demonstration, plus the initial submission, will decide the one deserving victor who will be crowned during a glittering ceremony on the 27th September at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.

“The award is unique as it seeks to recognise the highly skilled chefs, working in manufacturing, that keep the wheels of this innovative sector turning. Have you or someone in your team produced a fantastic product to help drive your business forward? Don’t let this hard work go unnoticed. The UK Foodservice Quality Food Awards is all about banging the drum for the industry – development chefs are its lifeblood. Now is the time to celebrate the many achievements of these outstanding individuals.”